How Do We Know that Jesus Will Return in the Twinkling of an Eye?
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God always works. Sometimes, his plans take time. Sometimes, his work is sudden, “in the twinkling of an eye.”
This poetic phrase by the Apostle Paul highlights a revolutionary change—from our earthly bodies to a supernatural, eternal, and transformed heavenly body. This will happen immediately—in a split second.
But what does Paul mean when he speaks of a change happening “in the twinkling of an eye”?
Is “In the Twinkling of an Eye” Talking about the Rapture?
The phrase has been a focal point in discussions about the end times. The full passage reads, “Listen, I tell you a mystery: We will not all sleep, but we will all be changed—in a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).
Christians provide various interpretations of this passage and its connection to the rapture.
One major interpretation connects the phrase to the rapture, a belief held predominantly in certain evangelical, specifically dispensationalist, traditions. In this interpretation, the “twinkling of an eye” signifies a sudden, instantaneous event where believers (both the living and the resurrected dead) are caught up to meet Jesus Christ in the air (probably before the tribulation). Proponents of this view often emphasize they believe the rapture is imminent and unexpected. They frequently draw on passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17, which describes believers being caught up to meet the Lord in the clouds.
Contrary to the pretribulation rapture view, some Christians adhere to post-tribulation or mid-tribulation perspectives. In these interpretations, the rapture occurs after or during the tribulation period, challenging the notion of an immediate, twinkling-of-an-eye escape before widespread upheaval.
For example, the last trumpet mentioned in 1 Corinthians doesn’t happen before the tribulation; it may align with the seventh trumpet in Revelation 11. This could be interpreted as happening at the tribulation’s middle or end. Also, the only time in Revelation that believers meet Jesus “in the air” is at his actual return at the tribulation’s end, making that point the most likely rapture moment.
Another interpretation suggests that the “twinkling of an eye” symbolizes not so much a physical spatial event like the rapture but something at the end times’ last stage: the final resurrection. In this view, the emphasis is on believers undergoing a rapid, final transformation. The body is glorified—a concept discussed in other New Testament passages, such as Philippians 3:20-21.
Postmillennial and amillennial perspectives within Christian eschatology downplay the significance of a distinct rapture event altogether. These perspectives often interpret passages like 1 Corinthians 15 in a broader context, focusing on the general resurrection at the age’s end rather than a separate event for believers.
It’s essential to note that rapture doctrine is, historically speaking, a recent movement. It became prominent in the nineteenth century. The concept of new bodies and meeting Christ in the air is consistent across the New Testament, but there are many beliefs on the timing.
What Does the Bible Say Will Happen In the Twinkling of an Eye?
1 Corinthians 15:51-52, written by the apostle Paul, is part of a larger discussion about the resurrection of the dead and the transformation of the living. Paul emphasizes that not all believers will experience physical death, but all will undergo a profound change. The transformation involves the mortal putting on immortality and the perishable putting on imperishability.
In the broader context of 1 Corinthians 15, the event associated with the twinkling of an eye is intricately connected to the resurrection of the dead. The last trumpet mentioned in the passage is often understood as signaling God’s redemptive plan culminating, ushering in a new era where believers experience glorification and eternal life.
Paul explains this resurrected body’s nature. He tells us there are two types of material: earthly bodies and heavenly bodies. Earthly bodies are of this world. Heavenly, or celestial, bodies are made of the same material as heaven. Many view heaven as this spiritual, ghostly place. In fact, the Bible teaches the spirit is a more lasting material, just a different kind than the fleshly matter we know today.
Therefore, at the last trumpet, Paul tells us we will get new bodies made of celestial material.
Why Does Paul Tell Readers How Their Lives Will Change in the Twinkling of an Eye?
As mentioned earlier, the statement about the twinkling of an eye is part of a larger discussion in 1 Corinthians 15.
Paul begins the chapter by reaffirming the gospel’s core message—Jesus Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection. He emphasizes the final resurrection is central: if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ himself has not been raised, and the Christian faith is in vain. Paul underscores the inseparable link between Christ's resurrection and believers’ hope in resurrection. The Old Testament prophesies about the final resurrection, and the New Testament consistently affirms its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, who will return one day.
As Paul unfolds his argument, he addresses what kind of body believers will have in the final resurrection. He uses the analogy of planting seeds to describe the new, transformed body. Believers will be raised with imperishable, glorious, powerful, and spiritual bodies—a stark departure from their current, mortal, and perishable states.
Believers require this new body to have a constant, face-to-face relationship with God. Since our earthly bodies are corrupted material, they cannot survive the eternal dimension of heaven. Christ’s disciples require a new body—heavenly material which lasts forever to commune with the Trinity eternally. This new body is the culmination of being born again—a need that Jesus explains in John 3.
There was a reason that Paul directed this lesson to the Corinthian church. The church was dealing with various issues—including divisions, moral controversies, and questions about the resurrection. Paul gives his readers assurance and encouragement by outlining the resurrection's transformative nature. He reinforces that Christ’s return is imminent, that there is a final victory over death—which aligns with other New Testament passages about Christ’s sudden return and the need for readiness and vigilance.
What Does the “in the Twinkling of an Eye” Teach Us Today?
Whether you believe the rapture is pre-, mid-, or post-tribulation, “in the twinkling of an eye” holds profound lessons for Christians today. It offers insights into what transformation believers will undergo, how imminent Christ’s return is, and the hope believers carry. Specifically, it teaches us these things by emphasizing:
- The Immediacy of Transformation. The “twinkling of an eye” affirms we will experience immediate transformation. This teaches us to be prepared and vigilant because this significant, life-altering change can happen suddenly and without warning. The emphasis on immediacy encourages us to live with a sense of readiness and spiritual alertness, always anticipating the transformative work of God, related to the truth Jesus’ coming will be something of a surprise.
- The Certainty of Christ's Return. The phrase “in the twinkling of an eye” is inseparable from Christ’s return and God’s redemptive plan being consummated. It reminds us of Jesus’ certain return, which fulfills God’s promises. Hence, we can have a sense of hope and assurance amid uncertainties. It also means we must anchor our faith in the unchanging truth of Christ’s imminent return.
- Our Hope Amid Challenges. The broader 1 Corinthians 15 context reveals Paul addressing a community facing challenges and doubts, losing hope for the eternal future. This teaching assures believers that God’s transformative power transcends present struggles. In personal trials, societal upheavals, or spiritual battles, we find solace that God’s transformative work may happen anytime, bringing victory and renewal.
- Our Preparation and Readiness. “In the twinkling of an eye” teaches Christians that spiritual preparation and readiness matter. Just as the transformation is described as occurring swiftly, we’re encouraged to cultivate a lifestyle of readiness—being watchful, prayerful, and attentive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance. We prepare by living under God’s principles, actively pursuing holiness, and maintaining a close relationship with God.
- Our Focus on Eternal Perspective. The transformative event gives us an eternal perspective. Amid temporal concerns and worldly distractions, we remember our ultimate citizenship is in heaven. This teaching encourages Christians to prioritize spiritual values, invest in eternal pursuits, and view earthly challenges in light of the surpassing glory coming beyond earthly death.
- Our Urgency in Sharing the Gospel. The fact that this change will come “in the twinkling of an eye,” and that change is imminent, should give us a sense of urgency about sharing the Gospel. This transformative event is not just for us; it extends to all who embrace the message of salvation. We must actively participate in the Great Commission, sharing the hope of Christ’s return and the transformative power of His love to a world that needs Christ’s hope.
Whatever we believe about the rapture’s timeline, every believer can take comfort in God’s plan to give us a new body for the New Heaven and Earth. We can hope and know that Christ will return for those he loves and saves.
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This article is part of our larger End Times Resource Library. Learn more about the rapture, the anti-christ, bible prophecy and the tribulation with articles that explain Biblical truths. You do not need to fear or worry about the future!
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